Next steps for leaders in union and government?

The need to involve younger workers was made a priority during an OCSEA strategic planning session this summer.

As a result, the Board of Directors is currently in the initial stages of gathering a core group of younger members that will be used as a sounding board to articulate issues important to younger members.

One immediate effect was that OCSEA’s convention in August placed a greater focus than ever on younger members and their issues. Four leaders, all in their thirties, were spotlighted throughout convention and led a panel discussion about how to get more members involved in union activity.

Younger leaders continued this dialogue during a lunch roundtable at the recent Steward Conference.

Some chapters also recognize the urgency of reaching out to younger members. Lorain Correctional Chap. 4720, for example, has launched a plan to develop and prepare their up-and-coming leaders.

Additionally, OCSEA continues to push the necessity of succession planning within state government. Does the State of Ohio have a plan in place that focuses on strategic skills and capturing the knowledge of workers eligible for retirement?

That answer isn’t clear but OCSEA wants to get to the bottom of it.

“When people retire, it’s not just about filling an empty seat. There will be a serious loss of skills and intellectual capital, and we, as a union, have an obligation to make sure members that remain are properly trained, safe and equipped to keep government moving,”said Charlie Williamson, OCSEA Board of Directors PR & Membership Committee.

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